Ethical and legal aspects of liver transplantation

Catholic teaching on transplants derives from the principle of fraternal love, which would allow transplantation, provided no harm to the donor would result. It is based on the concept of functional integrity to guarantee that the body's systematic integrity is not destroyed. Since donating an organ is not an obligation but a choice, obtaining the donor's free, informed consent is essential. The competent donor should receive complete information concerning the transplant procedure, the prognosis, the material risks, and any alternative procedures. In the case of incompetent donors, consent of the parent or guardian usually is necessary. Some states, however, have laws that allow treatment despite parental objection. For example, the court may substitute its judgment for the incompetent patient's or may appoint a guardian. With the signing of the National Organ Transplantation Act in October 1984, the law now provides for a computer registry to speed the matching of donors and recipients. As transplant technology continues to advance and use of the organ procurement system increases, Catholic health care professionals must ensure that Christian concepts guide the resolution of transplantation's bioethical issues.